Soft Skills Enhancing Productivity: A Conceptual Framework

Abstract Book of the 10th International Conference on Research in Business, Management and Finance

Year: 2026

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Soft Skills Enhancing Productivity: A Conceptual Framework

Dr. Lovatiana Raveloarison, Mialy Rabarison

ABSTRACT:

The objective of this research is to explore the relationship between key soft skills, such as communication, teamwork, adaptability, problem-solving and time management, and both individual and organisational productivity. As work environments become increasingly dynamic and collaborative, it has become essential to understand the role of these skills in sustainably improving performance. Whilst previous studies have examined individual soft skills in isolation, there is a lack of comprehensive frameworks linking the multiple dimensions of soft skills to productivity indicators across organisational contexts. The research gap lies in the limited availability of integrated conceptual models explaining the mechanisms through which soft skills influence productivity outcomes. The methodology adopts a conceptual research approach based on an in-depth review of the existing literature from studies in management, organisational behaviour, human resource development and workplace productivity. Empirical findings are analysed to develop a comprehensive framework linking interpersonal skills to productivity through mediating factors such as employee engagement, collaboration and job satisfaction. The results suggest that soft skills contribute significantly to productivity by improving communication effectiveness, fostering teamwork, reducing workplace conflicts, enhancing the ability to adapt to change, and supporting effective decision-making. The proposed framework indicates that these skills indirectly enhance organisational performance through improved employee motivation and work quality driven by soft skills. The practical implications highlight the importance of integrating the development of interpersonal skills into recruitment, training and performance management systems. Organisations that allocate resources to the enhancement of interpersonal skills are likely to achieve higher levels of employee productivity and efficiency.

Keywords: Adaptability; Communication; Employee Performance; Interpersonal Skills; Teamwork